ACCESS TO CPAP BY SUS: STATE STANDARDS FOR PATIENTS WITH OSA

Abstract

Obstructive Sleep Apnea has a high prevalence in the Brazilian population and is strongly associated with cardiovascular and metabolic comorbidities. The main treatment for this disease is Continuous Positive Airway Pressure therapy. The aim of this research is to determine the requirements established by each State Health Department in Brazil for the supply of this device to users equipment to patients using the Sistema Único de Saúde. The data was collected by contacting Health Departments via electronic communication systems and telephone calls during the year 2024. The results showed that among the Brazilian states and the Federal District, 48% have a program to supply the equipment. Regarding the required criteria, there are several barriers to meeting them, such as the difficulty of access to polysomnography, the difficulty of meeting all the requirements of the Health Departments and the availability of specialist professionals accepted in the state programs. The conclusion is that it is necessary to implement effective programs to provide this device, in order to facilitate patient access to treatment.